1996 Mini MK VI vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VI is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 267 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Reliant Scimitar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mini MK VI | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mini | Reliant |
| Model | MK VI | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 620 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2140 mm |
